Hublot celebrates its 40th anniversary with three reissues of the original "Classic Fusion"

While gold watches on rubber straps have been gaining attention among watch enthusiasts in recent years, back in 1980, this unconventional idea was revolutionary. Founded in 1980 by Italian entrepreneur Carlo Crocco, Hublot introduced this watch concept to the world under the name "Fusion," setting the company's course for the decades to come. In 2020, Hublot celebrated its 40th anniversary by reviving the groundbreaking original model. Let's take a look at the Classic Fusion 40th Anniversary Edition.

Classic Fusion 40th Anniversary Model

　The Classic Fusion 40th Anniversary models are available in three case materials, all 45mm in diameter and featuring the brand's namesake screw-down "porthole" bezel ("Hublot" means "porthole" in French). All three models are available in limited quantities, with the 18K yellow gold model most reminiscent of the pioneering 1980 model being limited to 100 pieces. The two titanium and black ceramic models, more representative of modern Hublot, are limited to 200 pieces each. All cases feature a combination of satin-brushed and polished finishes.

　The polished black lacquer dial features faceted hands for the hours, minutes and seconds, the counterweight of which bears the Hublot logo.

　The Classic Fusion collection's simple dial contrasts with Hublot's other flagship model, the Big Bang. Introduced in 2005 by current Chairman Jean-Claude Biver, who became Hublot's CEO in 2004, the Big Bang was the model that propelled Hublot to new heights of popularity. The Classic Fusion has always been a more understated and dressier model than the Big Bang, and this 40th anniversary model is a pure expression of that style.

　The movement featured in the Classic Fusion 40th Anniversary models is a significant upgrade over the quartz movement featured in the 1980 model, giving it a more luxurious feel. All three models are equipped with the automatic caliber HUB1112. Following the disruptive approach of the original model, which was the first to combine a precious metal case with a black rubber strap, all models feature the same style of strap.

　It was Jean-Claude Biver who coined the phrase "The Art of Fusion" as Hublot's slogan 15 years ago, but current CEO Ricardo Guadalupe emphasizes that the fusion concept has been at the heart of the brand since its very beginning, positioning this model as "a brand new, modern version that celebrates Hublot's innovative approach over the past 40 years."